# epitranscriptomics

> systematic study of changes in gene expression caused by the epitranscriptome

**Wikidata**: [Q137660701](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q137660701)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/epitranscriptomics

## Summary
Epitranscriptomics is the systematic study of changes in gene expression caused by the epitranscriptome—modifications to RNA molecules that influence their function without altering the DNA sequence. It is a specialized branch of epigenomics that focuses on post-transcriptional modifications rather than DNA-based epigenetic mechanisms.

## Key Facts
- A subclass of epigenomics and gene expression profiling
- Focuses on RNA modifications that alter gene expression without changing DNA
- Includes MeSH tree codes: E05.393.332.001, H01.158.273.180.350.074.001, H01.158.273.343.350.042.001
- Linked to MeSH descriptor ID D000099129 with qualifier "Epitranscriptomics"
- Defined as the systematic study of changes in gene expression caused by the epitranscriptome

## FAQs
### Q: What is the difference between epitranscriptomics and epigenomics?
A: Epigenomics studies gene expression changes caused by epigenetic processes (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modifications), while epitranscriptomics specifically examines post-transcriptional RNA modifications that influence gene expression.

### Q: How does epitranscriptomics relate to gene expression profiling?
A: Epitranscriptomics is a specialized subset of gene expression profiling that focuses on RNA modifications, rather than broader DNA-based epigenetic mechanisms.

### Q: What are the MeSH codes associated with epitranscriptomics?
A: Epitranscriptomics is linked to the MeSH tree codes E05.393.332.001, H01.158.273.180.350.074.001, and H01.158.273.343.350.042.001, as well as the descriptor ID D000099129 with the qualifier "Epitranscriptomics."

## Why It Matters
Epitranscriptomics provides critical insights into how RNA modifications influence gene expression, offering a deeper understanding of regulatory mechanisms beyond DNA-based epigenetic changes. By studying the epitranscriptome, researchers can uncover novel pathways in development, disease, and cellular function that are not captured by traditional epigenomic approaches. This field is particularly relevant in cancer research, where RNA modifications are increasingly recognized as key drivers of disease progression. Additionally, epitranscriptomics enhances our ability to model gene expression dynamics, improving therapeutic strategies and biotechnological applications.

## Notable For
- Specializes in RNA modifications that alter gene expression without DNA changes
- A distinct subclass of epigenomics, focusing on post-transcriptional mechanisms
- Includes specific MeSH codes and descriptor IDs for standardized classification
- Provides a nuanced view of gene regulation beyond DNA-based epigenetic processes
- Essential for understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted therapies

## Body
### Definition and Scope
Epitranscriptomics is defined as the systematic study of changes in gene expression caused by the epitranscriptome—modifications to RNA molecules that influence their function. It is a specialized branch of epigenomics that focuses on post-transcriptional modifications rather than DNA-based epigenetic mechanisms.

### Relationship to Epigenomics
Epitranscriptomics is a subclass of epigenomics, which broadly studies gene expression changes caused by epigenetic processes. While epigenomics includes DNA-based modifications (e.g., methylation, histone modifications), epitranscriptomics specifically examines RNA modifications, such as methylation, pseudouridylation, and editing.

### MeSH Classification
Epitranscriptomics is classified under the following MeSH tree codes:
- E05.393.332.001
- H01.158.273.180.350.074.001
- H01.158.273.343.350.042.001

It is also linked to the MeSH descriptor ID D000099129 with the qualifier "Epitranscriptomics."

### Significance in Research
Epitranscriptomics plays a crucial role in understanding gene regulation, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic targets. By studying RNA modifications, researchers can identify novel pathways that are not captured by traditional epigenomic approaches. This field is particularly relevant in cancer research, where RNA modifications are increasingly recognized as key drivers of disease progression.

### Future Applications
Epitranscriptomics enhances our ability to model gene expression dynamics, improving therapeutic strategies and biotechnological applications. As the field evolves, it is expected to provide deeper insights into cellular function and disease mechanisms.